GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Lysine is an essential amino acid that is
found in beans, brewer’s yeast, cheese, dairy products, eggs, fish, legumes, lima beans, meat,
milk, nuts, potatoes, seafood, seeds, soy, whey, whole
grains, and yeast.
ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:
Lysine helps to regulate the
pineal gland, mammary glands, and ovaries. It is important for growth and bone development,
promotes calcium absorption, maintains nitrogen balances,
aids in the production of antibodies, hormones, and collagen, and helps to build muscle
tissue. Several studies have found that regular use
of lysine supplements might be able to reduce the frequency and intensity of herpes virus
flare-ups. Both cold sores and genital herpes are caused by the herpes simplex virus, after
the initial infection with herpes the virus hides in nerves
cells and causes flare-ups of the disease at times of
stress, e.g. when the body is immunocompromised.
In vitro studies suggest that lysine combats the herpes virus by blocking the amino acid arginine,
which the herpes virus requires in order to
replicate.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
Symptoms and signs of lysine deficiency include: anemia, apathy, bloodshot eyes, depression,
edema, fatigue, fever blisters, hair loss, inability to
concentrate, infertility, irritability, lethargy, liver
damage, loss of energy, muscle loss, retarded growth,
stomach ulcers, and weakness.
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
1-3g of lysine a day is usually taken for the
treatment of herpes.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL:
Not established, however lysine supplements
should not be taken for any longer than 6 months, as prolonged use may cause an imbalance of
the amino acid arginine.
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
People who are allergic to eggs, milk, or
wheat, and diabetics should not take supplementary
lysine. People with kidney disease or
liver disease should consult their doctor before taking
lysine
